India Gifts 40 Kg Sandalwood to Nepal for Ritual Use at Pashupatinath Temple

India has gifted over 40 kilograms of special sandalwood to Nepal for use in religious rituals at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, underscoring the deep-rooted religious and cultural ties between the two neighbouring countries.

The consignment, sent on the initiative of India’s Home Minister Amit Shah , was delivered for use in the worship of the Shree Yantra at the revered Shiva temple. Officials at the Pashupati Area Development Trust , which manages the temple affairs, confirmed the handover on Thursday.

Sandalwood is considered highly sacred in Hindu worship. It is traditionally used to prepare holy paste, incense, and offerings , believed to purify the surroundings and enhance spiritual focus during worship. At Pashupatinath, the wood will be used specifically in rituals associated with the Shree Yantra , a geometric symbol representing divine energy and prosperity, and an important object of worship in Shaivite and Shakta traditions.

The sandalwood was formally handed over to Ganesh Bhatta , the chief priest of the Pashupatinath temple, in coordination with Sandeep Rana , a member of Nepal’s House of Representatives. Following the ceremony, the priest transferred the consignment to Sushila Sharma , head of the Guthi Sansthan Pashupati Goswara Office, for secure storage and regulated use.

Officials noted that India supplies such sandalwood annually, reflecting the continuing spiritual cooperation and shared heritage between India and Nepal, particularly centred around sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites like Pashupatinath, which attracts devotees from both countries.